7 Creative Games to Play with Beach Balls

7 Creative Games to Play with Beach Balls

Nothing says summer like beach balls — colorful, lightweight, and perfect for instant fun. But they’re not just for the beach. From school field days to youth group events, these bouncy balls are some of the most versatile play items you can have on hand.

At The Best Group Games, we love turning simple gear into unforgettable activities. Here are seven ways to use beach balls that will keep kids moving and laughing.


1. Parachute Popcorn

Pair a beach ball with our Rainbow Parachute for instant chaos and fun. Place one or more balls on the parachute, then have players shake it to keep them bouncing. Add challenges like keeping the ball from falling off for extra excitement.

2. 9 Square in the Air

Swap the traditional volleyball with a beach ball for a gentler, beginner-friendly version of 9 Square in the Air. The lighter ball slows down gameplay, making it ideal for younger kids or mixed-age groups.

3. Bucket Golf

Create a mini Bucket Golf course using cones and buckets, then replace traditional balls with beach balls for a fun, oversized challenge. Players kick or push the ball toward the buckets — perfect for big fields or parks.

4. Human Hungry Hungry Hippos

Divide players into teams. Each team member lies on a scooter board while holding a basket or bucket. Push them toward a pile of beach balls in the center to collect as many as possible. This pairs well with bright cones to mark boundaries.

5. Water Balloon Gauntlet Hybrid

Combine water balloons with beach balls for a twist — defenders try to block balloons with beach balls while runners dodge both. It’s part dodgeball, part splash zone, and 100% summer fun.

6. Beach Ball Relay Races

Set up cones as lanes and have players race while balancing or carrying a beach ball — between knees, on their heads, or back-to-back with a partner. Simple but guaranteed laughter.

7. Omnikin

For giant group play, use multiple beach balls at once — or upgrade to an Omnikin ball for even bigger energy. Toss them into a large group and see if kids can keep them all in the air — or assign point systems for each successful hit.


Why Beach Balls Work for Group Games

  • Safe for all ages (lightweight and soft)
  • Versatile for indoor and outdoor play
  • Affordable and easy to transport
  • Perfect for camps, schools, and family gatherings

The Bottom Line

Beach balls turn any space into a playground. Whether you’re pairing them with parachutes, adding them to 9 Square in the Air, or creating a DIY bucket golf course, they’re a must-have for group fun.

Explore The Best Group Games for parachutes, cones, discs, and other gear that make beach ball games even more unforgettable.

 

Back to blog